George Michael, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face | COVERS

In the 41^st edition of COVERS (2023), George Michael delivers a compelling rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” famously recorded by Roberta Flack.

AAh, it’s time to get cozy and totally cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers, as opposed to the original/most famous performer.  It is open to both established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 41^st edition of COVERS (2023), 🎙 George Michael delivers a compelling rendition of 🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”, famous recorded by 🎙 Roberta Flack.

“The first time ever I kissed your mouth / I felt the earth move in my hands…” Aww 🥰.  🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” appears as the fifth track from 💿 Songs From The Last Century, the 1999 covers album by the late, great, 🏆 Grammy-winning pop superstar, 🎙 George Michael.  No doubt that “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a song from the last century, penned by British singer, songwriter, and playwright 🎼 ✍ Ewan MacColl in 1957 – 42 years before Michael recorded it! One of the most covered songs, with its most famous rendition by 🎙 Roberta Flack, Michael manages to deliver his marvelous interpretation.

Like many renditions of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” simplicity is the key. A poetic yet subtle song, it doesn’t require an ornate backdrop or gospel histrionics vocally.  George Michael impresses with his beautiful tone and a poised, calm, cool, and collected performance.  Simply put, George doesn’t need to do much more than sing naturally – no runs necessary! As far as the supporting backdrop, it begins initially with the standard rhythm section – piano, guitar, bass, and drums.  Providing some additional color is orchestra, but it’s non troppo – maintaining restraint.  An animated vocalist, hearing Michael pull back on 🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is refreshing, letting the radiant lyrics, and his special instrument shine bright like a diamond 💎.

🎙 George Michael • 💿 Songs From The Last Century • 🏷 Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited • 📅 1999

George Michael, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face: Covers No. 41 (2023) [📷: Brent Faulkner /The Musical Hype; Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited; cottonbro studio, MART PRODUCTION, Ron Lach from Pexels; Paul Brennan from Pixabay]